Emirati elders plant tree to shelter future generations, like nation builders before them

Emirati elders and toddlers come together to plant a tree and raise the UAE flag for Flag Day in Fujairah. Wam

FUJAIRAH // Emirati elders and toddlers came together on Thursday to plant a tree for Flag Day.

The two groups were brought together to represent the glorious past and the prosperous future of the country at the Ministry of Community Development Centre in Fujairah.

Seven elders who are members of the cultural section of the centre helped plant the Flag Day Tree, the growth of which will symbolise the country’s bright future while its roots will represent the country’s strength, heritage and culture.

“As we grow old, we can’t offer much to the country and this is part of our appreciation and love to the UAE and our Rulers,” said 80-year-old Halima Al Mismari, the oldest member of the group.

“It’s the least we can do to our country, may God keep us united.”

Another elder said she brought her granddaughter to celebrate with them and participate in planting the tree and raising the flag.

“The tree symbolises life, prosperity and heritage, therefore we decided to plant one on this day,” said Ayda Rashid, 60.

“I brought my granddaughter Moza with me to celebrate with us. She represents the future and we want her and all of the new generation to learn from the past and work hard for a better future.”

The cultural section members had also been busy in the last two months with weaving and sewing clothes, baskets and scarves for the occasion.

“We prepared many things for this day and we sold plenty of hand-made items that has the colours of the flag,” said Azizah Aal Ali, 50.

“It’s a day that represents joy, pride and an opportunity to show our appreciation.”

The elders joined centre officials and representatives from the young men’s foster home and social affairs office in raising the UAE flag at 11am, holding small flags while singing the national anthem.

The community development centre manager said that each year the elders were invited.

“This day is all about unity and the national spirit, so we brought together two different generations to prove that, no matter how old we are, our love, pride and appreciation to the country and its leaders will always be the same,” said Ahlam Aal Ali.

Ten children aged 3 to 4 from Al Dana Nursery in Kalba came to take part.

“This is the second time we have participate in this event, as we opened in 2015. The kids enjoyed the celebration and were spoilt by the elders’ generosity,” said Mayada Lotfi, a 28-year-old Arabic teacher at the nursery.

Balloons coloured in red, green, white and black were released by the attendees as part of the celebration.